Organosilicon nanocapsules

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides an organosilicon nanocapsule, which includes:  
     a nanoscale core A, which includes:  
     at least one particle including at least one oxide or mixed oxide, KA—O, of at least one metal or semimetal selected from the group including main groups 2 to 6 of the Periodic Table, transition groups 1 to 8 of the Periodic Table, lanthanides, and mixtures thereof;  
     and  
     an organosilicon shell B, which includes:  
     at least one organosilicon compound having the formula (Ia):  
     (Si′O—) x Si—R   (Ia)  
     wherein R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms;  
     wherein x is a number from 0 to 20;  
     wherein remaining free valences of Si are each independently (KA—O)—, SiO— or —Z;  
     wherein remaining free valences of Si′ are each independently (KA—O)—, SiO—, —R, or —Z;  
     wherein the Z&#39;s are each independently hydroxyl or alkoxy radicals; and  
     wherein each Si and Si′ in the shell B have not more than one R group attatched thereto.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to organosilicon nanocapsules having a nanoscale core A, and a substantially complete organosilicon shell B, processes for preparing, and uses of same. Such compounds are particularly suited for use in scratch-resistant coatings.

[0003] 2. Discussion of the Background

[0004] It is known that the surface properties of sol or gel particles or of metal or semimetal oxides can be modified by treatment with a hydrolyzable organosilane or organosiloxane, which generally involves the attachment of just a single-ply silane layer to the oxide or sol gel particle. Oxides or sol or gel particles treated in this way, examples being inorganic pigments or fillers, may be incorporated into a polymer matrix, films, coating compositions and coatings producible therewith. In general, however, the scratch resistance of such polymer systems is low.

[0005] DE 198 46 660 discloses nanoscale, surface-modified oxide or mixed-oxide particles enveloped by organosilicon groups bonded covalently to the oxide particle, the organofunctional groups being described as reactive groups and normally being oriented outward, so that by means of polymerization they are bound into the polymer matrix with the polymer material when the prepolymer is cured. The process of preparing such coating compositions is complicated, since the organosilane and the oxide component are incorporated separately into the prepolymer.

[0006] DE 198 46 659 possesses the same priority as DE 198 46 660 and relates to a laminate provided with a scratch-resistant synthetic-resin layer which likewise contains nanoscale, surface-modified oxide particles. DE 198 46 659 teaches specifically the use of acryloyloxyalkylsilanes to produce a shell around nanoscale oxide particles that possess reactive, radiation-crosslinkable groups. The preparation of the coating composition in this case is likewise via a time-consuming reaction of a nanoscale silica with methacryloyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® MEMO) in an acrylate formulation in the presence of water, an acid, and a wetting agent. Again, the components must be brought together separately and in a specific sequence.

[0007] Hydrolyzable silane components having ethylenically unsaturated organic groups are usually high-priced starting materials, however. In addition, DYNASYLAN® MEMO tends to react in the presence of even slight traces of a polymerization initiator or radiation with the undesirable result that the viscosity of a corresponding formulation may rise drastically. To avoid the unwanted polymerization, stabilizers must be added. It is therefore often difficult to master the handling of the starting materials and the preparation of such coating systems.

[0008] The coating compositions described above are frequently of high viscosity, and usually contain only a small fraction of oxide particles, which impacts the scratch resistance of the subsequent coating. It is difficult to apply such highly viscous coating compositions to a substrate, especially when the substrate in question is thin and can be destroyed by tearing. The scratch resistance of coatings obtainable in this way is in need of improvement, and with such highly viscous systems, a specific, complex application apparatus is required. In many cases, as well, solvents are added to coating compositions of such high viscosity, but this undesirably leads to an increase in the organic emissions (VOC problem; VOC=volatile organic compounds).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide organosilicon-modified nanoparticles and a process for their production.

[0010] Another object is to provide a process for preparing coating compositions for scratch-resistant coatings in as simple and economic a manner as possible.

[0011] Another object of the invention is to provide articles with a corresponding scratch-resistant synthetic-resin coating.

[0012] Another object of the invention is to provide nanocapsules that are directly available in a composition for scratch resistant coatings

[0013] These and other objects have now been achieved by the present invention, the first embodiment of which provides an organosilicon nanocapsule, which includes:

[0014] a nanoscale core A, which includes:

[0015] at least one particle including at least one oxide or mixed oxide, KA—O, of at least one metal or semimetal selected from the group including main groups 2 to 6 of the Periodic Table, transition groups 1 to 8 of the Periodic Table, lanthanides, and mixtures thereof;

[0016] and

[0017] an organosilicon shell B, which includes:

[0018] at least one organosilicon compound having the formula (Ia):

[0019] (Si′O—)_(x)Si—R  (Ia)

[0020] wherein R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms;

[0021] wherein x is a number from 0 to 20;

[0022] wherein remaining free valences of Si are each independently (KA—O)—, SiO— or —Z;

[0023] wherein remaining free valences of Si′ are each independently (KA—O)—, SiO—, —R, or —Z;

[0024] wherein the Z's are each independently hydroxyl or alkoxy radicals; and

[0025] wherein each Si and Si′ in the shell B have not more than one R group attatched thereto.

[0026] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a composition, which includes the above nanocapsule and at least one selected from the group including a liquid, a curable synthetic resin, a precursor of a synthetic resin, and a mixture thereof.

[0027] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a process, which includes applying the above composition according to a substrate.

[0028] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a composition, which includes the above nanocapsule and a cured resin, wherein the cured resin includes at least one selected from the group including acrylate, methacrylate, epoxide, epoxy resin, polyurethane, polyurethane resin, unsaturated polyester, unsaturated polyester resin, epoxy acrylate, polyester acrylate, urethane acrylate, silicone acrylate, and mixtures thereof.

[0029] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a coated article, which includes the above composition in contact with a substrate.

[0030] Another embodiment of the present invention provides n organosilicon nanocapsule prepared by a process, which includes reacting:

[0031] (i) at least one nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) particle of at least one metal or semimetal selected from the group including main groups two to six of the Periodic Table of the Elements, transition groups one to eight of the Periodic Table of the Elements, lanthanides, and combinations thereof,

[0032] with

[0033] (ii) at least one alkyltrialkoxysilane having the formula (II)

[0034] (Z)₃Si—R  (II)

[0035] wherein the Z's are identical or different and are each independently hydroxyl or alkoxy radicals;

[0036] wherein R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms;

[0037] and

[0038] (iii) optionally, a monomeric and/or oligomeric silicic ester which carries at least one selected from the group including methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, i-propoxy group, and combinations thereof and has an average degree of oligomerization of from 1 to 50,

[0039] and

[0040] (iv) optionally, an organofunctional siloxane whose functionalities are identical or different and in which each silicon atom carries at least one functionality selected from the group including n-alkyl, i-alkyl, cycloalkyl, fluoroalkyl, chloroalkyl, bromoalkyl, iodoalkyl, alkoxyalkyl, mercaptoalkyl, aminoalkyl, and combinations thereof, and remaining free valences of the silicon atoms in the siloxane are satisfied by methoxy or ethoxy or hydroxyl groups,

[0041] and

[0042] (v) optionally, a further organofunctional silane selected from the group including aminoalkylalkoxysilane, mercaptoalkylalkoxysilane, epoxyalkoxysilane, alkoxyalkylalkoxysilane, fluoroalkylalkoxysilane, chloroalkylalkoxysilane, bromoalkylalkoxysilane and iodoalkylalkoxysilane, in situ in a liquid, a curable synthetic resin or a precursor of a curable synthetic resin.

[0043] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a process for preparing an organosilicon nanocapsule, which includes reacting:

[0044] (i) at least one nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) particle of at least one metal or semimetal selected from the group including main groups two to six of the Periodic Table of the Elements, transition groups one to eight of the Periodic Table of the Elements, lanthanides, and combinations thereof,

[0045] with

[0046] (ii) at least one alkyltrialkoxysilane having the formula (II)

[0047] (Z)₃Si—R  (II)

[0048] wherein the Z's are identical or different and are each independently hydroxyl or alkoxy radicals;

[0049] wherein R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms;

[0050] and

[0051] (iii) optionally, a monomeric and/or oligomeric silicic ester which carries at least one selected from the group including methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, i-propoxy group, and combinations thereof and has an average degree of oligomerization of from 1 to 50,

[0052] and

[0053] (iv) optionally, an organofunctional siloxane whose functionalities are identical or different and in which each silicon atom carries at least one functionality selected from the group including n-alkyl, i-alkyl, cycloalkyl, fluoroalkyl, chloroalkyl, bromoalkyl, iodoalkyl, alkoxyalkyl, mercaptoalkyl, aminoalkyl, and combinations thereof, and remaining free valences of the silicon atoms in the siloxane are satisfied by methoxy or ethoxy or hydroxyl groups,

[0054] and

[0055] (v) optionally, a further organofunctional silane selected from the group including aminoalkylalkoxysilane, mercaptoalkylalkoxysilane, epoxyalkoxysilane, alkoxyalkylalkoxysilane, fluoroalkylalkoxysilane, chloroalkylalkoxysilane, bromoalkylalkoxysilane and iodoalkylalkoxysilane, in situ in a liquid, a curable synthetic resin or a precursor of a curable synthetic resin.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0056] Various other objects, features and attendant advantages of the present invention will be more fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0057] It has surprisingly now been found that organosilicon nanocapsules are obtainable in a simple and economic way by reacting:

[0058] (i) at least one nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) and at least one metal or semimetal of main groups two to six or transition groups one to eight of the Periodic Table of the Elements, or of the lanthanides,

[0059] with

[0060] (ii) at least one alkyltrialkoxysilane of the general formula (II)

[0061] (Z)₃Si—R  (II)

[0062] in which the groups Z are identical or different and the groups R and Z possess the same meaning as described above,

[0063] and

[0064] (iii) if desired, a monomeric and/or oligomeric silicic ester which carries methoxy, ethoxy, or n- and/or i-propoxy groups and has an average degree of oligomerization of from 1 to 50, preferably from 2 to 10, with particular preference from 3 to 5,

[0065] and

[0066] (iv) if desired, an organofunctional siloxane whose functionalities are identical or different and in which each silicon atom in the siloxane carries a functionality selected from the group including n-, i-, cyclo-alkyl, preferably those alkyl groups having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, fluoroalkyl, chloroalkyl, bromoalkyl, iodoalkyl, alkoxyalkyl, mercaptoalkyl and aminoalkyl and the remaining free valences of the silicon atoms in the siloxane are satisfied by methoxy or ethoxy or hydroxyl groups,

[0067] and

[0068] (v) if desired, a further organofunctional silane selected from the group including aminoalkyl-alkoxysilane, mercaptoalkylalkoxysilane, alkoxyalkylalkoxysilane, epoxyalkoxysilane, fluoroalkylalkoxysilane, chloroalkylalkoxy silane, bromoalkylalkoxysilane and iodoalkylalkoxysilane, where alkoxy is preferably methoxy, ethoxy, n- or i-propoxy and, in particular, triethoxy, in situ in a curable synthetic resin or a precursor of a curable synthetic resin, i.e., a liquid prepolymer or a mixture of liquid prepolymers, for example, an acrylate, methacrylate, epoxide, polyurethane, unsaturated polyester, to name but a few examples.

[0069] Further, it has surprisingly been found that the following reaction for the preparation in situ of a coating composition including organosilicon nanocapsules may be conducted in a particularly advantageous way if an organosilane according to (ii) which contains an alkyl-functional group, such as a linear, branched or cyclic alkyl group, preferably having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, and at least one hydrolyzable group, preferably methoxy, ethoxy, i- or n-propoxy or 2-methoxyethoxy, or at least one hydroxyl group, together if desired with abovementioned components (iii) to (v), is first introduced into a liquid, curable synthetic resin or a precursor of a synthetic resin, a catalyst, wetting agents if desired, and water are added, the system is mixed and only then is the component (i) added, with thorough mixing, and hydrolysis alcohol formed is stripped from the system, i.e., in such a way that in the present process, in contrast to the teachings of DE 198 46 660 and DE 198 46 659 (both incorporated herein by reference), the organosilicon components and the oxide component are not incorporated separately or alternately into the prepolymer.

[0070] The present process is further surprising and advantageous in that it is thereby possible to obtain a coating composition for scratch-resistant coatings which includes organosilicon nanocapsules, possesses a low viscosity, and is homogeneous, it being possible for the coating composition to contain a particularly high proportion of organosilicon nanoparticles. Furthermore, excellent scratch resistance can be achieved in particular with coating compositions of the invention including alkyl-functional organosilicon nanocapsules.

[0071] In general, in this process, hydrolyzable groups of the organosilicon components hydrolyze and/or condense with one another and envelop the oxide nanoparticles (KA—O). If appropriate, the hydrolyzable groups or hydroxyl groups may condense with hydroxyl groups present on the surface of the oxide nanoparticles (KA—O), or with free valences of organosilicon components of the shell B, to form a covalent linkage.

[0072] In the case of the present process, the reaction takes place suitably in the presence of defined amounts of water. It is preferred to use from 0.5 to 6 mol of water, with particular preference from 0.5 to 4 mol of water, with very particular preference from 1 to 1.5 mol of water, per mole of a hydrolyzable, Si-bonded group of the organosilicon components. These ranges include 0.75, 1.1, 1.8, 2, 2.5, 3, 4.5 and 5 mol of water. The use of a catalyst and of a wetting agent is preferred.

[0073] In particular it is possible in the case of the present process, through the use of methyltrialkoxysilane and n-propyltrialkyloxysilane, to obtain coating compositions having high solids contents, high transparency, and good processing properties.

[0074] In general in the case of dilatant coating systems of this kind, the target viscosity is up to 2500 mPa s. Preferably, solvent-free coating compositions of the invention possess a viscosity of >500 to 1000 mPa s. These ranges include 600, 700, 900, 1100, 1500, 1800, 2000, and 2300 mPa s. In this case the amounts of nanoscale capsules in coating compositions of the invention are suitably up to 60% by weight, which range includes 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50% by weight.

[0075] Preferably, in the case of the present process, the product substantially includes nanoscale oxide or mixed-oxide particles, with a complete and multilayer organosilicon shell, referred to as organosilicon nanocapsules, which are obtained directly, advantageously, in fine dispersion in a curable synthetic resin or in a precursor of a curable synthetic resin, and the comparatively low-viscosity product mixture may be used as it is or as a basis for coating materials for the scratch-resistant coating of surfaces.

[0076] The organosilicon shell in the nanocapsule of the present invention may be covalently bonded to the core, or it may be in contact with the core but not covalently bonded to the core. Preferably, at least one covalent bond is present between the shell and the core. The nanocapsules may be present in compositions as either a bonded type or a non-bonded type or may be present as a mixture of bonded and non-bonded types.

[0077] The organosilicon shell may completely or partially cover the core, independently of the bonding or non-bonding nature of the nanocapsule. Preferably, the organosilicon shell completely or substantially completely covers the core. The nanocapsule may be present in compositions as only the completely covered or as only the partially covered or mixtures of completely covered and partially covered. Preferably, the nanocapsules are present as mixtures of both completely and partially covered types.

[0078] Coating materials or coating compositions of the invention may optionally contain as further components initiators for the photochemical curing and/or UV curing, such as Darocur® 1173, Lucirin® TPO-L, stabilizers, such as HALS compounds, Tinuvins, and also antioxidants, such as Irganox®.

[0079] By means of the present preparation method, a solvent-free, comparatively low-viscosity coating material or a composition containing organosilicon nanocapsules of the invention is accessible simply, directly, and economically.

[0080] The coating of a substrate with the present composition is generally comparatively easy owing to the low viscosity of the composition.

[0081] The coating is preferably cured photochemically by UV irradiation or by irradiation with electron beams. The irradiation is normally conducted, at a temperature of from 10 to 60° C., advantageously at ambient temperature. This range includes 15, 20, 25, 30, 40 and 50° C.

[0082] A coating is obtained which, surprisingly, features a relatively high packing density and an outstanding scratch resistance. It is recognized that the alkyl groups of the organosilicon nanocapsules of the invention that have not polymerized with the polymer matrix have taken on a controlling function. Accordingly, articles or substrates coated in accordance with the invention are generally notable for outstanding scratch resistance in accordance with DIN 53 799 (hard balls) and for good abrasion resistance (DIN 52 347). The entire contents of each of the aforementioned DIN standards are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0083] The present invention preferably provides organosilicon nanocapsules including a nanoscale core A, which includes at least one oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) of at least one metal or semimetal from main groups 2 to 6 or transition groups 1 to 8 of the Periodic Table of the Elements, or of the lanthanides, and an organosilicon shell B, wherein the organosilicon shell B includes at least one organosilicon constituent of the general formula Ia

[0084] (Si′O—)_(x)Si—R  (Ia),

[0085] in which R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms and x is a number from 0 to 20, the remaining free valences of Si being satisfied by SiO—, and/or —Z and the free valences of Si′ being satisfied by SiO—, —R and/or —Z, the groups Z being identical or different and being hydroxyl and/or alkoxy radicals, and each Si and Si′ of the shell B carrying not more than one group R, and/or wherein the organosilicon shell B is bonded to the core A (KA—O) via one or more covalent linkages to give the general formula Ib

[0086] (KA—O)—{(Si′O—)_(x)Si—R}  (Ib)

[0087] in which R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms and x is a number from 0 to 20, the remaining free valences of Si being satisfied by (KA—O)—, SiO—, and/or —Z and the free valences of Si′ being satisfied by (KA—O)—, SiO—, —R and/or —Z, the groups Z being identical or different and being hydroxyl and/or alkoxy radicals, and each Si and Si′ of the shell B carrying not more than one group R.

[0088] Preferred linear, branched or cyclic alkyl groups of the nanocapsules of the invention are those having 1 to 20 carbon atoms, particular preference being given to methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, i-propyl, n-butyl, i-butyl, sec-butyl, t-butyl, n-hexyl, n-octyl, i-octyl, n-dodecyl, n-hexadecyl or n-octadecyl groups. As substituted alkyl groups, preference is given here to fluoroalkyl groups of the general formula CF₃(CF₂)_(y)(CH₂CH₂)_(z), in which y is a number from 0 to 10 and z is 0 or 1, with particular preference being given to heptafluoropropyl- or tridecafluoro-1,1,2,2-tetrahydrooctyl.

[0089] Preferred alkoxy radicals of the groups Z are those with a linear, cyclic or branched alkyl radical having 1 to 18 carbon atoms; particular preference is given to methoxy, ethoxy, i- or n-propoxy groups.

[0090] In the compounds having the formula (Ia) and/or (Ib), the range of 0 to 20 for x includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19.

[0091] Preferably, in the compounds of formulas (Ia) and/or (lb), the Si and Si′ are tetravalent silicons.

[0092] Referring to the Periodic Table, of which the version disclosed in The Merck Index, 11^(th) ed., Merck & Co. 1989 is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference, the term, “main groups 2 to 6” refers to groups Ia, IIa, IVa, Va and VIa, respectively; and the term, “transition groups 1 to 8” refers to groups Ib, IIb, IIIb, IVb, Vb, VIb, VIIb and VIII, respectively; and lanthanides refer to any of elements 57-71.

[0093] The core A of the polymerizable organosilicon nanocapsules of the invention preferably includes at least one oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O), including oxide hydroxides, selected from the group including the elements Si, Al, Ti and/or Zr, for example, SiO₂, such as pyrogenically prepared silica, silicates, Al₂O₃, aluminum hydroxide, alumosilicates, TiO₂, titanates, ZrO₂ or zirconates. Mixtures are possible.

[0094] Including the shell B, polymerizable organosilicon nanocapsules of the invention preferably have an average diameter of from 10 to 400 nm, with particular preference from 20 to 100 nm. These ranges include 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 200 and 300 nm.

[0095] Another preferred embodiment of the present invention provides organosilicon nanocapsules obtainable by reacting

[0096] (i) at least one nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide of at least one metal or semimetal from main groups two to six or transition groups one to eight of the Periodic Table of the Elements, or of the lanthanides,

[0097] with

[0098] (ii) at least one alkyltrialkoxysilane of the general formula (II)

[0099] (Z)₃Si—R  (II)

[0100] in which the groups Z are identical or different and the groups R and Z possess the same abovementioned meaning,

[0101] and

[0102] (iii) if desired, a monomeric and/or oligomeric silicic ester which carries methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy or i-propoxy groups and has an average degree of oligomerization of from 1 to 50, for example, tetramethoxysilane, tetraethoxysilane, such as DYNASIL®A, tetrapropoxysilane, such as DYNASIL®P, or an oligomeric ethyl silicate, such as DYNASIL®40,

[0103] and

[0104] (iv) if desired, an organofunctional siloxane whose functionalities are identical or different and in which each silicon atom in the siloxane carries a functionality selected from the group including n-, i-, cycloalkyl, fluoroalkyl, chloroalkyl, bromoalkyl, iodoalkyl, alkoxyalkyl, mercaptoalkyl and aminoalkyl and the remaining free valences of the silicon atoms in the siloxane are satisfied by methoxy or ethoxy or hydroxyl groups, preference being given to those siloxanes having an average degree of oligomerization of from 1 to 20, particularly preferably having an average degree of oligomerization of from 2 to 10, as may be preferably found in the German patent applications 199 55 047.6, 199 61 972.7, EP 0 518 057, EP 0 590 270, EP 0 716 127, EP 0 716 128, EP 0 760 372, EP 0 814 110, EP 0 832 911, EP 0 846 717, EP 0 846 716, EP 0 846 715, EP 0 953 591, EP 0 955 344, EP 0 960 921, EP 0 978 525, EP 0 930 342, EP 0 997 469, EP 1 031 593, and EP 0 075 697,

[0105] (the entire contents of each of which being hereby incorporated by reference)

[0106] and

[0107] (v) if desired, a further organofunctional silane selected from the group including aminoalkylalkoxy silane, mercaptoalkylalkoxysilane, alkoxyalkyl alkoxysilane, epoxyalkoxysilane, fluoroalkylalkoxy silane, chloroalkylalkoxysilane, bromoalkylalkoxy silane and iodoalkylalkoxysilane, in situ in a curable synthetic resin or a precursor of a synthetic resin.

[0108] Furthermore, an object of the present invention is a process for the production of silicon-organic nanocapsules as well as for the production of a composition silicon-organic nanocapsules. The silicon-organic nanocapsules are particularly preferable in the production, in situ, of a fluid, curable synthetic resin, or in a precursor stage of a synthetic resin. The synthetic resin composition which contains the silicon-organic nanocapsules can be used as a coating agent or as a paint or paint base for the production of scratch-resistant coatings on a substrate. The present invention also contemplates a substrate coated with the synthetic resin.

[0109] The present invention further provides a process for preparing organosilicon nanocapsules, which includes reacting

[0110] (i) at least one nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide and at least one metal or semimetal from main groups two to six or transition groups one to eight of the Periodic Table of the Elements, or of the lanthanides,

[0111] with

[0112] (ii) at least one alkyltrialkoxysilane of the general formula (II)

[0113] (Z)₃Si—R  (II)

[0114] in which the groups Z are identical or different and the groups R and Z possess the same meaning as described above,

[0115] and

[0116] (iii) if desired, a monomeric and/or oligomeric silicic ester which carries methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy or i-propoxy groups and has an average degree of oligomerization of from 1 to 50, and

[0117] (iv) if desired, an organofunctional siloxane whose functionalities are identical or different and in which each silicon atom in the siloxane carries a functionality selected from the group including n-, i-, cycloalkyl, fluoroalkyl, chloroalkyl, bromoalkyl, iodoalkyl, alkoxyalkyl, mercaptoalkyl and aminoalkyl, and the remaining free valences of the silicon atoms in the siloxane are satisfied by methoxy or ethoxy or hydroxyl groups, and

[0118] (v) if desired, a further organofunctional silane selected from the group including aminoalkylalkoxysilane, mercaptoalkylalkoxy silane, epoxyalkoxysilane, alkoxyalkylalkoxyl silane, fluoroalkylalkoxysilane, chloroalkylalkoxyl-silane, bromoalkylalkoxysilane and iodoalkyl-alkoxysilane, in situ in a liquid, a curable synthetic resin or a precursor of a synthetic resin.

[0119] In general, in the process of the invention, the generally liquid components of the curable synthetic resin or the precursor of a curable synthetic resin, i.e., the prepolymer or, respectively, the prepolymer mixture, are introduced as an initial charge and heated, a defined amount of water, optionally catalyst, optionally wetting agents, and components (ii) to (v) are added, and the oxide component (i) is incorporated subsequently with thorough mixing. Suitably, the alcohol formed by hydrolysis or condensation is removed from the system.

[0120] In the process of the invention it is preferred to employ as organosilicon component (ii) methyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® MTMS), methyltriethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® EMTES), ethyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® ETMS), ethyltriethoxysilan (DYNASYLAN® ETES), n-propyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® PTMO), n-propyltriethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® PTEO), i-butyl-trimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® IBTMO), i-butyltriethoxy-silane (DYNASYLAN® IBTEO), octyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® OCTMO), octyltriethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® OCTEO), hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® 9116), and hexadecyltriethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® 9216).

[0121] However, as additional monomeric component (v) it is also possible to use, for example, 3-chloropropyltrialkoxysilanes, 3-bromopropyltrialkoxysilanes, 3-iodopropyltrialkoxysilanes, 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® AMMO), 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® AMEO), N-(n-butyl)-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® 1189), n-aminoethyl-3-aminopropylmethyldimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® 1411), 3-aminopropylmethyldiethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® 1505), N-aminoethyl-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® DAMO), triamino-functional propyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® TRIAMO), triaminofunctional propylmethyldialkoxy-silanes, 3-glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® GLYMO), 3-glycidyloxypropyltriethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® GLYEO), 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® MTMO), perfluoroalkyltrialkoxysilanes, fluoroalkyltrialkoxysilanes, including tridecafluorooctyltrimethoxysilane, tridecafluoroocty Itriethoxysilane (DYNASYLAN® F 8261), (H₅C₂O)₃Si(CH₂)₃—Si(CH₂)₃Si(OC₂H₅)₃ 1,4-bis (3-triethoxysilylpropyl) tetrasulfane (Si-69), (H₅C₂O)₃Si(CH₂)₃—S₂—(CH₂)₃Si(OC₂H₅)₃ 1,2-bis(3-triethoxysilylpropyl)disulfane (Si-266), 3-{methoxy(polyethyleneglycide)}propyltrialkoxysilanes, 3-amino-2-methylpropyltrialkoxysilanes, (cyclohex-3-ethyl) ethyltrialkoxysilanes, 4-(2-trialkoxysilylethyl)1,2-epoxycyclohexanes, bis(3-alkoxysilylpropyl)amines, tris(3-alkoxysilylpropyl)amines, with methoxy, ethoxy or i- or n-propoxy advantageously standing for one of the abovementioned alkoxy groups.

[0122] If desired, however, it is also possible in addition to use monomeric organosilicon components containing photochemically reactive groups, such as vinyl-, allyl-, aryl- or 3-methacryloyloxypropylalkoxysilanes.

[0123] In the process of the invention it is preferred to employ a nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) having an average particle diameter of from 1 to 100 nm, with particular preference from 5 to 50 nm, and with very particular preference from 10 to 40 nm. These ranges include 2, 5, 15, 20, 25, 30, 45, 50, 60, 70, 80 and 90 nm. The oxides and/or mixed oxides may possess a BET surface area of from 40 to 400 m²/g, preferably from 60 to 250 m²/g, with particular preference from 80 to 250 m²/g. These ranges include 50, 70, 90, 100, 150, 175, 200, 300 and 350 m²/g. As nanoscale oxides or mixed oxides it is possible for example—but not exclusively—to employ pyrogenic silica, which may have been modified by further fractions of metal or semimetal, such as aluminum, titanium, iron or zirconium.

[0124] According to the invention it is preferred to employ from 0.1 to 60% by weight, more preferably from 15 to 50% by weight, with particular preference from 20 to 45% by weight, with very particular preference from 25 to 40% by weight, in particular from 30 to 35% by weight, of nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O), based on the composition. These ranges include 1, 5, 10, 12, 22, 32, 42, 52 and 55% by weight.

[0125] It is further preferred to employ the oxide component (i) and at least one silane-based component, especially (ii), (iii), (iv) and/or (v), in a weight ratio of from 4:1 to 1:1, with particular preference from 3.5:1 to 1.5:1, with very particular preference from 3:1 to 2:1. These ranges include 3.25:1, 2.25:1, and 1.25:1.

[0126] Thus, in the case of organosilicon nanocapsules of the invention, the weight ratio between core A and shell B is preferably from 1:1 to 4:1. This range includes all values and subranges therebetween, including 1.5:1, 2:1, 2.5:1, 3:1, and 3.5:1.

[0127] The liquid and/or curable synthetic resin or precursor of a liquid, curable synthetic resin, i.e., a prepolymer or a mixture of prepolymers, used in the process of the invention includes, for example, acrylates, methacrylates, epoxides, epoxy resins, polyurethanes, polyurethane resins, unsaturated polyesters, unsaturated polyester resins, epoxy acrylates, polyester acrylates, urethane acrylates, silicone acrylates, polyfunctional monomeric acrylates, such as trimethylolpropane triacrylate, trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, ethoxylated trimethylolpropane triacrylate, propoxylated trimethylolpropane triacrylate, pentaerythritol triacrylate, ethoxylated pentaerythritol tetraacrylate, alkoxylated tetraacrylates, ditrimethylolpropane tetraacrylates, 3,4-epoxycyclohexyl-1-methyl 3,4-epoxycyclohexane-1′-carboxylate, 1,6-hexanediol diacrylate—to name but a few examples—or mixtures of two or more of the aforementioned synthetic resins and/or prepolymers, examples being mixtures of monofunctional and/or bifunctional and/or polyfunctional monomeric, optionally low-viscosity acrylates.

[0128] The reaction of the invention takes place in general in the presence of a well-defined amount of water. For this purpose it is preferred to employ from 1 to 6 mol of water per mole of Si ofthe components (ii) to (v). This range includes 1.1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 5 and 5.5 mol water.

[0129] Furthermore, the reaction of the invention is preferably conducted in the presence of a catalyst. A particularly preferable catalyst is an acid, preferably malefic anhydride, malefic acid, acidic acid, acidic anhydride, glycolic acid, citric acid, methanesulfonic acid and phosphoric acid.

[0130] Furthermore, the use of a wetting agent may be helpful for the implementation of the reaction of the invention. Accordingly, the reaction is preferably conducted in the presence of sodium dodecyl sulfate.

[0131] In the process of the invention, the reaction is preferably conducted at a temperature in the range from 30 to 100° C., more preferably at a temperature in the range from 50 to 80° C. This range includes 40, 45, 55, 60, 70, 75 and 90° C.

[0132] Hydrolysis and condensation in the reaction of the invention generally produces an alcohol, which is preferably removed from the reaction system during the reaction and/or afterward. The removal of the alcohol formed during the reaction may be carried out by distillation, appropriately under reduced pressure. In general, the amount of alcohol in the product mixture, i.e., in the composition obtained by the reaction of the invention, is reduced to <2% by weight, preferably to from 0.01 to 1% by weight, with particular preference to from 0.1 to 0.5% by weight, based on the composition, so as to give, advantageously, a solvent free composition, i.e., a solvent-free coating material base or a solvent-free coating material.

[0133] Such compositions of the invention, directly or following the addition of further coating components, may be used to outstanding effect for the scratch-resistant coating of substrates.

[0134] The present invention accordingly also provides a composition based on a curable synthetic resin or based on a precursor of a curable synthetic resin and including organosilicon nanocapsules of the invention or prepared in accordance with the invention.

[0135] The present invention further provides a composition or a coating material based on a curable synthetic resin or based on a precursor of a curable synthetic resin and obtainable as described herein.

[0136] Further components may appropriately be added to the composition of the invention or to the coating material of the invention, examples being initiators for the photochemical curing, Darocur® 1173, Lucirin® TPO-L, coatings stabilizers, such as HALS compounds, Tinuvins, and also antioxidants, such as Irganox®. Additives of this kind are generally employed in amounts of from 0.1 to 5% by weight, preferably from 2 to 3% by weight, based on the formulation or coating material. The introduction of further components into the coating system is suitably accompanied by thorough mixing.

[0137] The liquid used in the process of the invention preferably includes one or more selected from the group including alcohol, methanol, ethanol, propanol, and/or the further components discussed above and below.

[0138] Advantageously, despite a large amount of polymerizable organosilicon nanocapsules, the formulations and coating materials of the invention are notable for a comparatively low viscosity of from 500 to 1000 mPa s. This range includes 600, 700, 800 and 900 mPa s. The behavior of the systems is generally dilatant.

[0139] Accordingly, the invention also provides for the use of a composition of the invention as a coating material or as the basis for the preparation of a coating composition or coating material, especially for systems for scratch-resistant coating.

[0140] The application of the composition of the invention or of a coating material of the invention generally takes place by application to a substrate. For the coating of substrates it is possible to use the customary coating techniques, such as roller application, knife coating, dipping, flow coating, pouring, spraying or brushing, for example.

[0141] By way of example, the formulation of the invention or the coating material may be applied uniformly to sheet like substrates, such as paper or polymer films, using a roll applicator, and then cured.

[0142] The coating may suitably be cured at ambient temperature, i.e., coating temperature, by means of a UV or electron beam process (EBC), which is environment-friendly since there is no solvent. For electron beam curing, it is preferred to generate electrons having an energy of around 140 keV, the dose being from 30 to 60 kGy, preferably from 40 to 50 kGy. The residual O₂ content is preferably <200 ppm.

[0143] Alternatively, the coating may be cured by means of UV irradiation, using monochromatic or polychromatic UV lamps with a wavelength of from 150 to 400 nm. In the case of UV curing, as well, it is possible to operate at ambient temperature, between 10 and 60° C., for example. Here again, the O₂ content is suitably <200 ppm.

[0144] Accordingly, through the use of compositions and coating materials of the invention, it is possible in a particularly advantageous manner to produce coatings of outstanding scratch resistance. Moreover, coatings of the invention also possess good abrasion resistance. The determination of scratch hardness or scratch resistance is carried out here, in general, in accordance with DIN 53 799 using a hard metal ball. The abrasion can be effected, for example, in accordance with DIN 52 347 using coated faceplates with roll material.

[0145] The present invention accordingly likewise provides a process for producing a scratch-resistant coating, which includes applying a composition of the invention or a coating material of the invention to a ground or substrate and subjecting it to preferably photochemical curing. Alternatively, curing may be effected by chemical means, oxidatively, for example, using, for example, peroxide and an elevated temperature.

[0146] The present invention further provides scratch resistant coatings obtainable by applying a composition of the invention or a coating material of the invention as described herein.

[0147] Coatings of the invention preferably have a thickness of from 1 to 100 μm, with particular preference from 2 to 40 μm, and with very particular preference from 5 to 15 μm. These ranges include 10, 20, 30, 50, 60, 70, 80 and 90 μm.

[0148] Accordingly it is possible in a particularly simple and economic way to furnish, for example, metals, such as aluminum, iron, steel, brass, copper, silver, magnesium, nonferrous metal alloys, polymer films and metal foils, wood, paper, board, textiles, stone products, plastics, thermoplastics, polycarbonate, glass, and ceramic, with a particularly scratch resistant coating. The selection of the substrate materials for coating is unrestricted. Such substrates may be furnished, for example, with a protective coating, known as top coating, as is employed, for example, as a clearcoat system in the automobile industry.

[0149] In particular it is possible by the present coating process to obtain, simply and economically, articles endowed with scratch resistance, such as decorative paper, aluminum foils, polycarbonate auto glazing, PVC window frames, doors, worktops.

[0150] Decorative paper of the invention, for example, is used for a simultaneously cost-effective, scratch-resistant and optically advantageous surface design of furniture.

EXAMPLES

[0151] Having generally described this invention, a further understanding can be obtained by reference to certain specific examples which are provided herein for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to be limiting unless otherwise specified.

[0152] Starting materials: Particle core A Raw BET surface area material Average particle size (DIN 66 131; in m²/g Pyrogenic AEROSIL ® 20 nm  90 ± 20 silica 90 AEROSIL ® 14 nm 200 ± 20 200 AEROSIL ® 40 nm 200 ± 5− TT 600

[0153] Shell B Raw material Methyltrimethoxysilane DYNASYLAN ® MTMS n-Propyltrimethoxysilane DYNASYLAN ® PTMO n-Propyltriethoxysilane DYNASYLAN ® PTEO

[0154] Organic substrate/synthetic-resin component Trimethylolpropane methacrylate Sartgomer ® 350 Ethoxylated trimethylolpropane triacrylate Sartgomer ® 454 Ethoxylated pentaerythritol tetraacrylate Sartgomer ® 494 3,4-Epoxycyclohexyl-1′-methyl Cyracure ® 6105 3,4-epoxycyclohexane-1-carboxylate

[0155] Auxiliaries Catalyst Maleic anhydride or maleic acid Acetic acid Glycolic acid Wetting agent Sodium dodecyl sulfate Reactant Water

Example 1

[0156] 28.0 kg of Sartomer 494 and 48 g of 4-hydroxyanisole are charged to a stirred vessel and heated to 65 to 70° C. To the heated acrylate there are added a solution of 0.15 kg of glycolic acid and 0.098 kg of sodium dodecyl sulfate in 1.965 kg of water, and also over the course of 30 minutes 4.597 kg of DYNASYLAN PTMO. Subsequently, within the temperature range indicated above and with intensive stirring, 9.194 kg of AEROSIL 200 are metered in over the course of one hour. Stirring is continued for 3 hours at from 65 to 70° C. and the methanol formed by the hydrolysis of the silane is then distilled off under reduced pressure. Finally, the batch is cooled to room temperature.

Example 2

[0157] 28.0 kg of Sartomer 494 and 48 g of 4-hydroxyanisole are charged to a stirred vessel and heated to 65 to 70° C. To the heated acrylate there are added a solution of 0.15 kg of acetic acid and 0.163 kg of sodium dodecyl sulfate in 3.264 kg of water, and also over the course of 30 minutes 7.636 kg of DYNASYLAN PTMO. Subsequently, within the temperature range indicated above and with intensive stirring, 15.273 kg of AEROSIL TT600 are metered in over the course of 1 hour. Stirring is continued for 2 hours at from 65 to 70° C. and the methanol formed by the hydrolysis of the silane is then distilled off under reduced pressure. Finally, the batch is cooled to room temperature.

Example 3

[0158] 28.06 kg of Sartomer 350 and 48 g of 4-hydroxyanisole are charged to a stirred vessel and heated to 65 to 70° C. To the heated acrylate there are added a solution of 0.15 kg of maleic anhydride and 0.0536 kg of sodium dodecylsulfate in 1.073 kg of water, and also over the course of 30 minutes 3.725 kg of DYNASYLAN PTEO. Subsequently, within the temperature range indicated above and with intensive stirring, 8.965 kg of AEROSIL 90 are metered in over the course of one hour. Stirring is continued for 4 hours at from 65 to 70° C. and the ethanol formed by the hydrolysis of the silane is then distilled off under reduced pressure. Finally, the batch is cooled to room temperature.

Example 4

[0159] 25 kg of Sartomer 454 and 48 g of 4-hydroxyanisole are charged to a stirred vessel and heated to 65 to 70° C. To the heated acrylate there are added a solution of 0.15 kg of maleic anhydride and 0.075 kg of sodium dodecyl sulfate in 1.5 kg of water, and also over the course of 30 minutes 4.153 kg of DYNASYLAN MTMS. Subsequently, within the temperature range indicated above and with intensive stirring, 10.0 kg of alumina C are metered in over the course of one hour. Stirring is continued for 3 hours at from 65 to 70° C. and the methanol formed by the hydrolysis of the silane is then distilled off under reduced pressure. Finally, the batch is cooled to room temperature.

Comparative Example A

[0160] AEROSIL® 200/DYNASYLAN® VTMO/Sartomer® 494:

[0161] 29.2 kg of Sartomer 494 (from Cray Valley) and 16 g of 4-hydroxyanisole are charged to a stirred vessel and heated to 65 to 70° C. To the heated acrylate there are added a solution of 0.15 kg of malefic anhydride and 0.072 kg of sodium dodecyl sulfate in 1.44 kg of water, and also over the course of 30 minutes 3.6 kg of DYNASYLAN VTMO (vinyltrimethoxysilane). Subsequently, within the temperature range indicated above and with intensive stirring, 7.2 kg of AEROSIL 200 are metered in over the course of 1 to 2 hours. Stirring is continued for one hour at from 65 to 70° C. and the methanol is removed from the system under reduced pressure. Finally, the batch is cooled to room temperature.

Comparative Example B

[0162] AEROSIL® 200/DYNASYLAN® VTEO/Sartomer® 494:

[0163] 29.2 kg of Sartomer 494 (from Cray Valley) and 48 g of 4-hydroxyanisole are charged to a stirred vessel and heated to 65 to 70° C. To the heated acrylate there are added a solution of 0.15 kg of malefic anhydride and 0.075 kg of sodium dodecyl sulfate in 1.5 kg of water, and also over the course of 30 minutes 4.81 kg of DYNASYLAN VTEO. Subsequently, within the temperature range indicated above and with intensive stirring, 7.466 kg of AEROSIL 200 are metered in over the course of one hour. Stirring is continued for 3 hours at from 65 to 70° C. and the ethanol is removed from the system under reduced pressure. Finally, the batch is cooled to room temperature.

Comparative Example C

[0164] AEROSIL® 200/DYNASYLAN® MEMO/Sartomer® 494:

[0165] 29.2 kg of Sartomer 494 (from Cray Valley) and 16 g of 4-hydroxyanisole are charged to a stirred vessel and heated to 65 to 70° C. To the heated acrylate there are added a solution of 0.15 kg of malefic anhydride and 0.0262 kg of sodium dodecyl sulfate in 0.5246 kg of water, and also over the course of 30 minutes 3.6 kg of DYNASYLAN MEMO. Subsequently, within the temperature range indicated above and with intensive stirring, 7.2 kg of AEROSIL 200 are metered in over the course of 1 to 2 hours. Stirring is continued for 60 minutes at from 65 to 70° C. and the methanol is removed from the system under reduced pressure. Finally, the batch is cooled to room temperature.

Comparative Example D

[0166] 1000 Sartomer® 494:

[0167] Use examples

[0168] The coating materials of examples 1 to 4 and comparative examples A to C were applied by hand to square PVC plates (edge length 10 cm, thickness 2 mm) using a coating bar with a gap height of 50 μn and were cured in a low-energy electron accelerator (140 keV) with a dose of 50 kGy. The residual oxygen content in the accelerator was <200 ppm. The same procedure is carried out using Sartomer 494 (comparative example D).

[0169] The specimens are tested for their scratch hardness in accordance with DIN 53 799 using a hard metal ball. The specimens are also tested for abrasion resistance in accordance with DIN 52 347 and ASTM D-1044 using S-42 “emery paper”. The results of the tests are collated in Table 1. TABLE 1 Comparison of the test results from the use experiments Scratch hardness to Haze to DIN 53 799 DIN 52 347²⁾ Manual steel Hard and wool test (60 metal ASTM D-1044²⁾ Sample scratch cycles) Diamond ball¹⁾ 100 r 500 r Example 1 very good 2.5 N 9.0 N 0.75% 3.13% (PTMO, Aerosil 200) Example 2, very good 3.0 N 10.0 N  4.93% 21.13% PTMO, Aerosil TT 600) Example 3 very good 2.5 N 9.0 N 1.56% 5.42% (PTEO, Aerosil 90) Example 4 moderate 1.75 N  6.5 N 6.23% 27.56% (MTMS, alumina C) PVC plate poor 0.5 N 4.0 N 101.2% 127.5% Comp. Ex. D poor 1.0 N 6.0 N 20.3% 61.4% (Sartomer 494) Comp. Ex. C — 2.0 N 8.5 N 4.9% 8.6% (MEMO, Aerosil 200) Comp. Ex. B — 2.0 N 8.5 N 3.5% 7.9% (VTEO Aerosil 200) Comp. Ex. A — 2.5 N 9.0 N 2.9% 6.4% (VTMO, Aerosil 200)

[0170] Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

[0171] This application is based on German patent applications 10049628.8, filed Oct. 5, 2000, and 10100631.4, filed Jan. 9, 2001, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference, the same as if set forth at length. 

1. An organosilicon nanocapsule, comprising: a nanoscale core A, which comprises: at least one particle comprising at least one oxide or mixed oxide, KA—O, of at least one metal or semimetal selected from the group consisting of main groups 2 to 6 of the Periodic Table, transition groups 1 to 8 of the Periodic Table, lanthanides, and mixtures thereof; and an organosilicon shell B, which comprises: at least one organosilicon compound having the formula (Ia): (Si′O—)_(x)Si—R  (Ia) wherein R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms; wherein x is a number from 0 to 20; wherein remaining free valences of Si are each independently (KA—O)—, SiO— or —Z; wherein remaining free valences of Si′ are each independently (KA—O)—, SiO—, —R, or —Z; wherein the Z's are each independently hydroxyl or alkoxy radicals; and wherein each Si and Si′ in the shell B have not more than one R group attatched thereto.
 2. The nanocapsule according to claim 1, wherein said nanocapsule has the following formula (Ib): (KA—O)—{(Si′O—)_(x)Si—R}  (Ib) wherein R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms; wherein x is a number from 0 to 20; wherein remaining free valences of Si are each independently KA—O, SiO— or —Z; wherein remaining free valences of Si′ are each independently KA—O, SiO—, —R, or —Z; wherein the Z's are each independently hydroxyl or alkoxy radicals; and wherein each Si and Si′ in the shell B have not more than one R group attatched directly thereto.
 3. The nanocapsule according to claim 1, wherein said organosilicon compound of the shell B is attached to said KA—O core A (KA—O) by one or more covalent linkages.
 4. The nanocapsule according to claim 1, wherein the core A is an oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) of an element selected from the group consisting of Si, Al, Ti and Zr.
 5. The nanocapsule according to claim 1, wherein said nanocapsule has an average diameter of from 10 to 400 nm.
 6. The nanocapsule according to claim 1, wherein the core A has an average particle diameter of from 1 to 100 nm.
 7. The nanocapsule according to claim 1, wherein R is selected from the group consisting of methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, i-propyl, n-butyl, i-butyl, sec-butyl, t-butyl, n-hexyl, n-octyl, i-octyl, n-dodecyl, n-hexadecyl, and n-octadecyl group.
 8. The nanocapsule according to claim 1, wherein R is a substituted fluoroalkyl group having the formula CF₃(CF₂)_(y)(CH₂CH₂)_(z) wherein y is a number from 0 to 10 and z is 0 or
 1. 9. The nanocapsule according claim 1, wherein the alkoxy radical (Z) is selected from the group consisting of methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, and i-propoxy group.
 10. The nanocapsule according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the free valencies of Si or Si′ or both in said shell is (KA—O).
 11. The nanocapsule according to claim 1, wherein said shell is not covalently bonded to said core KA—O.
 12. A composition, comprising the nanocapsule according to claim 1 and at least one selected from the group consisting of a liquid, a curable synthetic resin, a precursor of a synthetic resin, and a mixture thereof.
 13. The composition according to claim 12, which is a coating composition or coating material.
 14. The composition according to claim 12, wherein the curable synthetic resin or precursor of a curable synthetic resin comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylate, methacrylate, epoxide, epoxy resin, polyurethane, polyurethane resin, unsaturated polyester, unsaturated polyester resin, epoxy acrylate, polyester acrylate, urethane acrylate, silicone acrylate, and mixtures thereof.
 15. A process, which comprises applying the composition according to claim 12 to a substrate.
 16. The process according to claim 15, further comprising subjecting the coated substrate to photochemical curing.
 17. The process according to claim 15, which is a process for producing a scratch-resistant coating.
 18. The process according to claim 16, wherein said photochemical curing comprises curing with UV radiation or electron beams at a temperature ranging from 10 to 60° C.
 19. A composition, comprising the nanocapsule according to claim 1 and a cured resin, wherein said cured resin comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylate, methacrylate, epoxide, epoxy resin, polyurethane, polyurethane resin, unsaturated polyester, unsaturated polyester resin, epoxy acrylate, polyester acrylate, urethane acrylate, silicone acrylate, and mixtures thereof.
 20. The composition according to claim 19, wherein the core A has an SiO₂ content of up to 60% by weight, based on the composition.
 21. The composition according to claim 19, which is a scratch-resistant coating.
 22. A coated article, comprising the composition according to claim 19 in contact with a substrate.
 23. The coated article according to claim 22, wherein said substrate is selected from the group consisting of sheetlike substrate, paper, metal foil, polymer film, metal, aluminum, iron, steel, brass, copper, silver, magnesium, nonferrous metal alloy, wood, board, textile, stone, plastic, thermoplastic, polycarbonate, glass, ceramic and combinations thereof.
 24. The coated article according to claim 22, which is selected from the group consisting of decorative paper, aluminum foil, polycarbonate auto glazing, PVC window frame, door, furniture, and worktop.
 25. An organosilicon nanocapsule prepared by a process, which comprises reacting: (i) at least one nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) particle of at least one metal or semimetal selected from the group consisting of main groups two to six of the Periodic Table of the Elements, transition groups one to eight of the Periodic Table of the Elements, lanthanides, and combinations thereof, with (ii) at least one alkyltrialkoxysilane having the formula (II) (Z)₃Si—R  (II) wherein the Z's are identical or different and are each independently hydroxyl or alkoxy radicals; wherein R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms; and (iii) optionally, a monomeric and/or oligomeric silicic ester which carries at least one selected from the group consisting of methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, i-propoxy group, and combinations thereof and has an average degree of oligomerization of from 1 to 50, and (iv) optionally, an organofunctional siloxane whose functionalities are identical or different and in which each silicon atom carries at least one functionality selected from the group consisting of n-alkyl, i-alkyl, cycloalkyl, fluoroalkyl, chloroalkyl, bromoalkyl, iodoalkyl, alkoxyalkyl, mercaptoalkyl, aminoalkyl, and combinations thereof, and remaining free valences of the silicon atoms in the siloxane are satisfied by methoxy or ethoxy or hydroxyl groups, and (v) optionally, a further organofunctional silane selected from the group consisting of aminoalkylalkoxysilane, mercaptoalkylalkoxysilane, epoxyalkoxysilane, alkoxyalkylalkoxysilane, fluoroalkylalkoxysilane, chloroalkylalkoxysilane, bromoalkylalkoxysilane and iodoalkylalkoxysilane, in situ in a liquid, a curable synthetic resin or a precursor of a curable synthetic resin.
 26. The nanocapsule according to claim 25, wherein the core A is an oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) of an element selected from the group consisting of Si, Al, Ti and Zr.
 27. The nanocapsule according to claim 25, wherein said nanocapsule has an average diameter of from 10 to 400 nm.
 28. The nanocapsule according to claim 25, wherein the curable synthetic resin or precursor of a curable synthetic resin comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylate, methacrylate, epoxide, epoxy resin, polyurethane, polyurethane resin, unsaturated polyester, unsaturated polyester resin, epoxy acrylate, polyester acrylate, urethane acrylate, silicone acrylate, and mixtures thereof.
 29. A process for preparing an organosilicon nanocapsule, which comprises reacting: (i) at least one nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) particle of at least one metal or semimetal selected from the group consisting of main groups two to six of the Periodic Table of the Elements, transition groups one to eight of the Periodic Table of the Elements, lanthanides, and combinations thereof, with (ii) at least one alkyltrialkoxysilane having the formula (II) (Z)₃Si—R  (II) wherein the Z's are identical or different and are each independently hydroxyl or alkoxy radicals; wherein R is a linear, branched, cyclic or substituted alkyl group having from 1 to 50 carbon atoms; and (iii) optionally, a monomeric and/or oligomeric silicic ester which carries at least one selected from the group consisting of methoxy, ethoxy, n-propoxy, i-propoxy group, and combinations thereof and has an average degree of oligomerization of from 1 to 50, and (iv) optionally, an organofunctional siloxane whose functionalities are identical or different and in which each silicon atom carries at least one functionality selected from the group consisting of n-alkyl, i-alkyl, cycloalkyl, fluoroalkyl, chloroalkyl, bromoalkyl, iodoalkyl, alkoxyalkyl, mercaptoalkyl, aminoalkyl, and combinations thereof, and remaining free valences of the silicon atoms in the siloxane are satisfied by methoxy or ethoxy or hydroxyl groups, and (v) optionally, a further organofunctional silane selected from the group consisting of aminoalkylalkoxysilane, mercaptoalkylalkoxysilane, epoxyalkoxysilane, alkoxyalkylalkoxysilane, fluoroalkylalkoxysilane, chloroalkylalkoxysilane, bromoalkylalkoxysilane and iodoalkylalkoxysilane, in situ in a liquid, a curable synthetic resin or a precursor of a curable synthetic resin.
 30. The process according to claim 29, wherein the organosilicon component (ii) is at least one selected from the group consisting of methyltrimethoxysilane, methyltriethoxysilane, ethyltrimethoxysilane, ethyltriethoxysilane, n-propyltrimethoxysilane, n-propyltriethoxysilane, i-propyltrimethoxysilane, i-propyltriethoxy silane and combinations thereof.
 31. The process according to claim 29, wherein 0.5 to 6 mol of water is used per mole of Si of the organosilicon components (ii) to (v).
 32. The process according to claim 29, wherein the nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) has an average particle diameter of from 1 to 100 nm.
 33. The process as claimed in claim 29, wherein the curable synthetic resin or precursor of a curable synthetic resin comprises at least one selected from the group consisting of acrylate, methacrylate, epoxide, epoxy resin, polyurethane, polyurethane resin, unsaturated polyester, unsaturated polyester resin, epoxy acrylate, polyester acrylate, urethane acrylate, silicone acrylate, and mixtures thereof.
 34. The process as claimed in claim 29, wherein from 0.1 to 60% by weight of nanoscale oxide and/or mixed oxide (KA—O) is present, based on the weight of the synthetic resin.
 35. The process as claimed in claim 29, wherein (i) and at least one selected from the group consisting of (ii), (iii), (iv) and (v) are employed in a weight ratio ranging from 4:1 to 1:1.
 36. The process as claimed in claim 29, wherein the reaction is conducted in the presence of a catalyst.
 37. The process as claimed in claim 29, wherein the reaction is conducted in the presence of water.
 38. The process as claimed in claim 29, wherein the reaction is conducted in the presence of a wetting agent.
 39. The process as claimed in claim 29, wherein the reaction is conducted at a temperature ranging from 30 to 100° C.
 40. The process as claimed in claim 29, wherein the curable synthetic resin or a precursor of a curable synthetic resin is introduced heated, optionally, catalyst, optionally, a wetting agent and water are added, components (ii) to (v) are introduced, and then component (i) is added with mixing.
 41. The process as claimed in claim 29, further comprising removing alcohol from the reaction system during the reaction, after the reaction, or both. 